Autism Weekly

What's actually happening in the brain when an autistic individual struggles to shift gears, adapt to change, or break out of a repetitive thought pattern? This week, host Jeffrey Skibitsky sits down with Dr. Lucina Uddin, neuroscientist and director of the Brain Connectivity and Cognition Laboratory at UCLA, to explore one of the most important and least-discussed topics in autism research: cognitive flexibility. Dr. Uddin breaks down how brain networks switch between internal thinking and external awareness, what happens when that switching system gets overloaded, and why some autistic individuals get stuck in a loop even when they have every skill needed to problem-solve in calmer moments. She also shares a surprising research finding: bilingual children with autism showed stronger inhibitory skills than their monolingual peers, suggesting that natural language exposure at home may support cognitive flexibility in ways families can start building today. Resources: Lucina Q. Uddin, Ph.D. (she/her) Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences Professor, Department of Psychology Director, Brain Connectivity and Cognition Laboratory Director, Center for Cognitive Neuroscience Analysis Core Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior University of California Los Angeles Dr. Uddin's lab at UCLA is currently recruiting children ages 8 to 12 with an autism diagnosis for a paid brain study on bilingualism and cognitive flexibility. Families can earn up to $300 for participating. To learn more or sign up, contact [email protected] or call 323-609-5866. In this episode: What cognitive flexibility is and why it matters for autistic individuals and their families The brain networks behind flexible thinking: default mode, salience, and executive systems Why anxiety and stress can shut down problem-solving even in high-ability individuals What neuroimaging reveals about brain differences in autism and where the science is headed The bilingual advantage: what Dr. Uddin's lab discovered and what it means for parents How early brain markers visible at six weeks old can predict later social development The shift toward precision psychiatry and individualized treatment Whether you're a parent, clinician, or educator, this episode gives you a new lens for understanding why flexibility can be hard and concrete reasons for hope. ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Christopher Carazas, a Paraguayan-American writer whose journey spans continents, cultures, and a lifetime of resilience. Diagnosed as autistic in adulthood, Christopher has navigated the challenges of masking, emotional recovery, and finding his voice after years of silence. His memoir, Now That I’m Still Here, shares a powerful story of survival and hope. Today, we’ll discuss his experiences, the healing power of storytelling, and how to foster inclusion. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Substack: https://substack.com/@ccarazas Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christopher.carazas.2025/ Chriscarazas.com ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Susan Williams White, a renowned clinical psychologist, researcher, and advocate for evidence-based interventions. Dr. White’s work focuses on helping individuals manage intense emotions and anxiety, with a special emphasis on youth with autism. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Facebook: UA Center for Youth Development and Intervention - CYDI or www.facebook.com/uacydi/ Instagram: @uacydi or www.instagram.com/uacydi/ X (Twitter): @uacydi or www.x.com/uacydi ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Shulamite Green, an Assistant Professor at UCLA and licensed clinical psychologist specializing in autism, sensory processing, and neurodevelopmental conditions. She leads the UCLA SCAN lab, where her research focuses on how the brain processes sensory information during adolescence. Today, we’ll discuss her findings and how they’re shaping new interventions. Download latest episode! Resources Their study is currently recruiting children ages 7-15 across the autism spectrum to participate in a study of sensory processing at UCLA. More information can be found on our website: Click Link here! UCLA Brain Research Institute (BRI) Shulamite Green, Ph.D. – UCLA Brain Research Institute (BRI) Members by Research Area – UCLA Brain Research Institute (BRI) ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Lauren Kenworthy, a leading expert in the field of autism and executive functioning. Dr. Kenworthy is the author of Unstuck and On Target, a school-based intervention program proven to help children on the autism spectrum develop critical executive functioning skills. Today we will be discussing how executive functioning impacts learning and daily life for autistic individuals, as well as practical strategies to support these skills at home, in school, and beyond. Download latest episode! Resources Lauren Kenworthy, Ph.D. Pediatric Neuropsychologist Chief, Division of Pediatric Neuropsychology Children’s National (Washington DC) Professor, Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry George Washington University Medical School Research Website: https://www.childrensnationalcasd.com ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Brooke Ingersoll, a leading autism researcher and Director of the MSU Autism Research Lab. She’ll be sharing insights on parent-mediated interventions, Project ImPACT, and the RISE study. These topics offer valuable support for families and individuals in the autism community. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Project Impact Resources Link to the official Project Impact website or resources where families can learn more about the program, access materials, and explore training opportunities. 2. MSU Autism Research Lab A link to Dr. Brooke Ingersoll's research lab at Michigan State University, where families can explore her work and related studies. ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Jill Escher, president of the National Council on Severe Autism, a dedicated advocate, autism research philanthropist, and mom to two children with nonverbal autism. Jill has spent her life working to support individuals and families affected by severe autism. She’s funded important research, provided housing for adults with developmental disabilities, and raised awareness about the challenges faced by the autism community. Today we will be discussing severe autism, the rising prevalence of autism, the need for long-term care and housing, and better access to treatments for severe behaviors. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources President National Council on Severe Autism Founder Escher Fund for Autism Board Secretary and Past President Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area Writings and presentations: jillescher.com ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Alix Generous—an autistic advocate, entrepreneur, scientist, and PhD student in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. Alix has used her unique perspective to drive innovation in science, technology, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. Today we will be discussing her journey, how reframing autism as a difference can inspire better support systems, and her passion for creativity, resilience, and inclusion. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources instagram: https://www.instagram.com/generousalix/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GenerousAlix/ My musical “Boogie Woogie & Bugle Boys”: https://cur8.com/22420/project/133958 ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Clara Garcia, Director of Programs, and Melissa Cardona, Senior Resource Specialist at the Autism Society of Inland Empire. Clara brings decades of experience in inclusion and program development, while Melissa, a parent of two children on the spectrum, is passionate about supporting families and building connections. Together, they’ll share insights on fostering inclusion, creating sensory-friendly programs, and meeting the needs of the autism community. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Home - Autism Society Inland Empire ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Matthew Lerner, a leading researcher and advocate for neurodivergence-affirming practices. Dr. Lerner is the Director of the Social Connections and Treatment Lab at Drexel University, where his work focuses on improving social development and creating inclusive, participatory interventions for neurodiverse individuals. Today, we’ll explore how these practices can empower autistic individuals and their families while fostering meaningful social connections. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources A.J. Drexel Autism Institute | A.J. Drexel Autism Institute | Drexel University Home | Autism Outcomes | Drexel University Social Connections & Treatment Lab (SCTL) - Home Affiliate, Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science Past-Treasurer, International Society for Autism Research ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Rose Griffin, a speech-language pathologist and board-certified behavior analyst with over 20 years of experience. In her last visit, we explored how speech and ABA therapy work together; be sure to check out that episode, which we’ll link to this one. Today, Rose will share practical speech therapy strategies for autistic children, the importance of joint attention, and how families can support communication growth. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abaspeechbyrose/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abaspeech/ ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Jenna Kokoski, a BCBA with over 20 years of experience in the ABA field. Jenna is the COO of Jade Health and a leader in the ABA community, known for her advocacy, expertise, and dedication to creating ethical and sustainable business models. She’s here to talk about the importance of accreditation in ensuring quality care in ABA, what families should look for in a provider, and how accreditation benefits both families and individuals with autism. Download to learn more! Resources Jade Health’s Suite of Offerings Include: BHCOE Accreditation |National Autism Data Registry | Credentialing and Contracting | Jade Health Learning Hub | Quickstart ABA Schedule a Meeting Connect on Social Media ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Ron Souers; an ADHD advocate, podcast host, and author who’s dedicated his life to empowering adults with ADHD to embrace their differences and unlock their true potential. Ron is the voice behind the podcast “Don’t Mind Me, I’m Different!”, where he shares raw and relatable stories about living with ADHD and depression, and he’s also the author of The Self Discovery Journal for Adults with ADHD. In this episode, Ron will share his journey, offer practical advice for families raising neurodiverse kids, and show us how ADHD can be a superpower when we learn to harness it. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Sensory Framework Dr. Luke Beardon To apply for the Post Graduate Certificate in Autism click here For an up to date publications list click here For a profile summary click here Follow @sheffieldluke on Twitter SIOE Blog - https://blogs.shu.ac.uk/sioe/ ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we are joined by Dr. Amy Keefer, a board-certified psychologist at Kennedy Krieger’s Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation and assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Keefer is a leading expert in autism and anxiety research, and she’s here to discuss an exciting clinical trial called DINOSAUR, which focuses on a novel anxiety treatment for 4-6-year-old autistic children. Download latest episode now to learn more! Resources Check out study flyer: https://8717295.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/8717295/DINO_StudyFlyer_7.25.pdf DINO Trail: https://www.kennedykrieger.org/patient-care/centers-and-programs/center-for-autism-services-science-and-innovation/research-innovation/research-studies/participate-in-research They are about to begin screening children virtually which means that anyone on the eastern seaboard could participate in the trial. ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Erin Kang, an Assistant Professor at Montclair State University whose groundbreaking research bridges science and practice to improve autism interventions. We’re also thrilled to welcome Dr. Sadaf Khawar, a postdoctoral researcher whose award-winning work focuses on the barriers South Asian and MENA families face in accessing autism services. Together, we’ll discuss how cultural and structural factors shape access to care and share practical advice for families navigating these challenges. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources NEURO LAB ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we are joined by Colleen Katzenmoyer, the newly appointed vice president of education services at Devereux, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare. Dr. Katzenmoyer brings nearly 20 years of experience in education and behavioral health, and she’s here to share how her new role will enhance services for families, schools, and communities nationwide. Download episode to learn more! Resources LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/devereux Handle: @devereux Instagram: www.Instagram.com/DevereuxNational Handle: @devereuxnational Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DevereuxNational Handle: @DevereuxNational YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@devereuxnational ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we are joined by Vijay Ravindran, founder of Floreo and an inspiring innovator in the world of autism technology. Vijay’s journey as an autism father, combined with his impressive career at companies like Amazon and The Washington Post, led him to create groundbreaking virtual reality tools that are transforming how individuals with autism learn and grow. Today, we’ll discuss how AI and VR are shaping the future of autism support. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijayravindran/ https://x.com/vijayravindran https://www.instagram.com/vijayravindran/ Research-based Virtual Reality Information: https://floreovr.com/ctp3 ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we are joined by David Geslak, also known as Coach Dave, a pioneer in using exercise to support individuals with autism. He’s the founder of a fitness program taught in nine universities and has partnered with the American College of Sports Medicine to create the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate. David has dedicated his career to empowering the autism community through movement. Today, we’ll discuss how exercise supports development, share strategies for daily routines, and highlight the global impact of his work. Download latest episode to learn more! Resources Facebook - @ExerciseConnection Twitter/X - @ExerciseConnect & @davidgeslak Instagram - @exerciseconnection & @davidgeslak YouTube - @exerciseconnection ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.

This week, we are joined by Dr. Dena L. Gassner, Senior Research Scientist at AJ Drexel, autism advocate, and member of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC). Dena is rewriting the narrative around autistic identity, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for gender diversity and inclusivity in autism research and policy. Her personal journey as a proud autistic mother adds a deeply relatable perspective to her work, and she teaches through storytelling to inspire and inform. Download episode now to learn more! Resources [email protected] facebook-https://www.facebook.com/CenterforUnderstanding https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dena-gassner-35532b78/ ............................................................... Autism weekly is now found on all of the major listening apps including apple podcasts, stitcher, Spotify, amazon music, and more. Subscribe to be notified when we post a new podcast. Autism weekly is produced by ABS Kids. ABS Kids is proud to provide diagnostic assessments and ABA therapy to children with developmental delays like Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can learn more about ABS Kids and the Autism Weekly podcast by visiting abskids.com.